The Firebrand

By Marion Zimmer Bradley

Book Overview

Marion Zimmer Bradley, the New York Times bestselling author who reimagined the legend of King Arthur and Camelot in The Mists of Avalon , delivers another alternate vision of classical myth with The Firebrand - a tale of the Trojan War. Born of noble blood, Kassandra is destined for a greater life than that of a Trojan princess. Even before her mother sends her to live among the Amazons, Kassandra is chosen by the Sun God, Apollo, as his priestess-and has the gift of foresight bestowed upon her. She has foreseen the destruction of Troy-a great war between Akhaians and Trojans and the wrath of the gods upon them all. But on one believes Kassandra's prophecies . . . or heeds her warnings about the woman known as Helen of Troy. 'A grand story in the storyteller tradition of old.' -Rambles 'Bradley animates . . . the conflicts between a culture that reveres the strength of women and one that makes them mere consorts of powerful men.' - Publishers Weekly

• Format: Mass Market Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0451462653
• ISBN13: 9780451462657
• Release Date: April 2009
• Publisher: Roc
• Length: 610 Pages
• Weight: 0.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.4" x 4.2" x 6.6"
• Age Range: 18 years and up
• Grade Range: Grade 12 and higher

Customer Reviews

A Fast-Paced and Colorful Epic

After reading The Mists of Avalon, I didn't think there could be another novel by Bradley to surpass its masterpiece. . . I was wrong. Firebrand was a novel that sweep me by storm. Between the two novels, Firebrand in much more fast-paced and adventure packed. Bradley's characters, as always, come to life with vibrant colors. I was struck by emotions, from tears to shear laughter throught the novel. The only fault I could find was that it had to end so soon. Kassandra, the main character, is a bold and curious woman. Bradley, through great historical writing, takes the reader through the various cultures in the time of the Trojan War. If you like historical fiction with a twist, this novel is a must read. It not only delves into a dramatic plot and love story, but describes a day in the life of the wealth of that time. Again Bradley captures the readers interest with her viewpoints through the most unexpected characters. I especially loved her insights on the famous Helen of Troy and Kassandra. Overall, this novel is a masterpiece that must be place in its own catagory. I highly recommend this novel to anyone to craves a warming love story, adventurous battles, vivid characters, and great historical descriptions. 5 stars for a remarkable and smooth-flowing author.

A very moving book

Naomi Salvarezza Reading and Writing English 100 2/22/00 Firebrand is my favorite book of all time. It is the tragic story of Troy told from the perspective of Princess Kassandra. Kassandra is a very beautiful young women going against the world. Since she was a child, she had the ability to see into the future. Troy's future was destined to be destroyed and Kassandra knew all along. The main point in this book to me is how Kassandra knew of the future and what awaited her people; everyone thought she was crazy for assumming such a terrible outcome. In the end every last prophecy she made came true and all her family died or were made into slaves. Kassandra lived her life with the pain of being ignored and yet she loved and cared for every last person who was around her. The princess had the spirit of a warrior and the heart of an angel who tried to serve her purpose for her God. Marion Zimmer Bradley's work brings joy to my life and I urge everyone to read this book.